General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: Why I am taking a break from DU. [View all]herding cats
(19,564 posts)I'm not doing it anymore (at least for a few years, I have burnout) after this election cycle, but if you'd like to pick up my slot, it's yours for the taking. It's grueling, thankless work for the most part, and people will be vulgar and spew any personal insult they think might sting in your direction. Not all people, but the margin grew significantly this past election cycle.
I mostly work state and smaller level elections, but I do (did) work work the vital national elections in a handful of states where I was needed. The best advice I can give anyone looking to influence such people is, pound the pavement. You'll get nowhere with this demographic by being an internet warrior. They're too insulated in their peer groups and thinking. They reinforce themselves with those who mirror their thinking (look at their facebook, Twitter, etc., accounts, they seek out reinforcing voices, and facts do not matter), values and political views. You know that "bubble" people like to beat each other up with here? They patented it two decades ago. Yeah, I know they've been expanding the usage of "bubble" to cover people on the left, but I believe that's a symptom of social media (See above), and not even close to what those actually on the right have going on. They've had way more time to perfect the technique of full on propaganda, after all.
I agree with your getting off DU and getting out there working to change people's views. DU is a gentle, yet comforting port in the political storm, not a substitute for legwork and actual one-on-one personal interaction. It's discussion, not activism. They're not even similar! Your understanding that they're not evil, just really ignorant pack thinkers voting to harm themselves, and others, because they've not been educated enough yet is an interesting approach. I have no idea why the Democratic Party hasn't thought of this yet.
Be sure and update us on the elections you're working for so we can follow your success. I know I'm deeply interested in your personal experience.
I wish you the best of luck in your future political work.